A Worcester opticians is celebrating its apprentices to mark the start of National Apprenticeship Week.

Sophia, 18, Trinity, 18 and Fifi, 17 are all currently undertaking the optical apprenticeship at Specsavers Worcester. The apprenticeship scheme is open to anyone from the age of 16 – including recent school or college leavers or those looking for a new challenge.

Training lasts for 13 months, however, there are also degree level apprenticeships available, which take three to four years to complete.

"I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship so far," said Sophia. "The support from the team has been brilliant and I’m learning so much."

Fifi added: "My apprenticeship has really helped to build my confidence and I’m looking forward to hopefully being able to continue my career at the store once I’ve completed the course."

Alan Richards, store director at Specsavers Worcester, said: "We love our apprentices. They add so much to our team, and it’s great to be able to offer them a chance to learn on the job and grow as people.

"Our apprenticeship scheme offers people of all ages the chance to learn new skills and kickstart their careers, which is something we’re really passionate about.

"With support from the team, we’ve seen lots of our apprentices go on to undertake higher roles in our store."

National Apprenticeship Week runs from February 6 to 12.

Specsavers employs apprentices across its retail stores, support offices and manufacturing and distribution sites around the UK.

For further information or to see what vacancies are available visit www.jobs.specsavers.co.uk/apprenticeship